Where good design meets good conscience
“Socially conscious.”
“Eco-friendly.”
“Earth-wise.”
Today, more and more jewelers (including www.lahra.com) are realizing that, through responsible, “green”-friendly practices, we can have a positive impact on the earth and its inhabitants—an impact that can extend to our businesses and bottom lines at the same time. Together, we’re becoming involved in a wide range of initiatives relating to human rights and environmental causes, committing time and financial resources towards advocacy efforts locally, nationally and across the globe.
So, what exactly is “green” or socially conscious jewelry anyway? It involves examining almost every part of the jewelry-making process:
Natural/Human Elements
Every piece of fine jewelry is built on natural resources, such as gold, silver or gemstones that must be mined from the earth, which can have significant environmental impact—a process that can be monitored and minimized. As a company, we can also evaluate the fair and ethical treatment of those involved in this stage of production.
Gold Mining
It’s no secret that gold mining has serious environmental impact. Today, the industry is working toward better practices that improve sustainability and reduce impact—and several of the largest mining companies are making changes to improve their performance. At www.lahra.com, we work with these types of firms whenever possible.
Diamonds/The Kimberly Process
We’ve all heard the phrase “conflict diamonds” or the cruder “blood diamonds.” This refers to gemstones that come from parts of Africa that are controlled by forces opposed to legitimate, internationally recognized governments. In fact, the revenue from these diamonds is used to fund military opposition groups.
Together with the UN, governments and non-governmental organizations, the diamond industry has developed the Kimberly Process Certification System, which is designed to prevent conflict diamonds from entering the legitimate diamond supply chain. In addition, the industry has implemented a (voluntary) System of Warranties to give consumers added confidence in conflict-free diamonds. At www.lahra.com, we subscribe to both initiatives.
Today, over 70 governments from around the globe have signed the Kimberly Process System into national law—and more than 99% of the world’s diamonds are from sources free of conflict. Still, the industry continues to improve the system.
Tips for “green” or “socially conscious” jewelry shopping
O.K., so as a consumer, what steps can you take to help ensure you’re making a socially responsible choice? Here are a couple simple tips:
1. Talk to your jeweler. Most businesses won’t change policies until customers demand it. Tell retailers about your concerns. Ask to see documentation of policies. Ask about the origins of metals and stones. Perform due diligence, and you’ll be on the right path already.
2. Consider recycled jewelry. Buying Harmony (TM) jewelry is a wise and responsible choice because the precious metals come from recycled materials. This means for each ounce of recycled gold 20 tons of waste is eliminated from the environment. By not using mined gold consumers will help avoid environmental destruction, contamination of fresh water, and the displacement of local communities. Harmony (TM) jewelry is 100% recycled precious metals paired with conflict-free diamonds and fair trade gems and there is absolutely no difference in appearance, quality or value. Another great choice for making priceless memories without any environmental impact at all might be buying vintage jewelry. Many other manufacturers are also using recycled materials and gemstones in all-new pieces.
You have more information in hand than ever before. Now, you can use it in your jewelry shopping to the advantage of everyone involved in the process—from the mine all the way to the retail shelf.
©2008 Lahra Corp. All rights reserved.
